I don't think a 4 year degree is needed, but there has to be more intensive training on many fronts. Some education should be required including in depth coursework on human psychology, anatomy and physiology, much better weapons training, and a much greater emphasis on controlling ones temper. Also think some law coursework should be required. Wouldn't mind them getting paid more but that would need to be contingent on better training which includes more education. No need to know Shakespeare or calculus although a well rounded person would likely be better at drawing from their life experiences to grow, learn and avoid being a shit-cop. Most cops I agree are good. But what amount are we ok with being bad? 25%? 10%, 5%? 1%? There are over 900,000 law enforcement officers (not all what we think of as cops) in the US. So even that minuscule 1% would be 9000 bad cops. And it's never only 1%. Most aren't evil, just ass holes. But an ass hole with a badge is a stain on society and a blight on their fellow officers.
A lot of my relatives....Irish americans...had 3 callings in life as did their fathers and grandfathers....bartender...cop....fireman..it's in the blood..goes way back in Americana...the 4th would probably be military..5th....raving lunatic alcoholic...some are capable of two of these callings simultaneously
I'm lucky to live where there are good..peace keeping, level headed local cops..I know all of them and they help people...don't harass anyone..are patient..have a community outreach program once a week to hear concerns...drive drunks home without locking them up....do it the right way.
I agree with you. I am "educated", but I've honestly learned more on my own than I ever have through higher education. Also, you may come across like a bit of a downer at times, but you come across as an educated downer. This was all tongue cheek.
